This was a unique project from the outset. The owners approached us with the unusual circumstances of a three-bedroom owner-occupied home, with three two-bedroom units arranged behind it, descending towards the rear access.

The site was on a steep slope, which presented both opportunities – each unit would have its own level and outlook, for example – and some obvious constraints to logistics, facilities and services. Our design makes the most of this topography by placing the units on individual terraces, descending towards the rear access, with only the main house visible from the front. As well as offering unrivalled privacy, this approach gives each unit a sense of autonomy and separation from its neighbours.

We chose materials consistent with the surrounding mid-century homes: warm brick and clean, white rendering. Metal screen gates and slatted timber fencing provide texture to soften the bold Modernist design. The dwellings are also designed in line with solar passive and energy efficient principles, open to the northern aspect with deep awnings and shade structures around windows and balconies. The result is a beautiful small-scale development, tucked away in Bayswater with all the peace and privacy a tenant could want.